Phoenix to go more attacking against Sydney

The Wellington Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick says he wants a more attacking approach from his side when they take on Sydney in Wellington this weekend.

Phoenix player Jeffrey Sarpong in action in the A-League. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The Phoenix are coming off a loss to Brisbane last weekend, while they drew nil-all in Sydney 3 weeks ago.

Defender Ben Sigmund is expected to miss the Sydney game as he continues to struggle with a hamstring injury.

The Dutch attacking midfielder Jeffrey Sarpong ran with the first team today, with Merrick suggesting he'll change his structure this week.

"Being at home playing Sydney we're not going to sit back, so there is probably going to be another player brought into the team, rather than a midfielder it'll be a more attacking player," Merrick said.

"There's two or three vying for that position and I've got them all guessing."

"The last time we played Sydney we drew nil all and we couldn't hold possession in the front third and we didn't threaten their goal, but I can guarantee we will threaten their goal this time."

Saturday's game is the first back at Westpac Stadium for the Phoenix for five weeks.

The Phoenix are sixth on the A-League table, two points behind Sydney.